The diaphragm is a form of contraception that protects against pregnancies.The dome is made of either latex or silicone and is soft and shallow.It is supposed to prevent sperm from coming in contact with the egg.The combination of spermicidal cream or gel and the diaphragm is enough to provide adequate protection.The diaphragm has a success rate of 95 percent.
Step 1: You need to wash your hands.
Clean hands are required to handle the diaphragm.If you want your vagina to stay clean, you need to wash your hands.Warm water and soap can be used to wash your hands.Before touching the diaphragm, be sure to dry them.If you need to, you can rinse off your diaphragm.Before washing your hands, you should empty your bladder.
Step 2: The diaphragm should be inspected before use.
Before use, make sure the device doesn't have holes or tears.If you want to have a clear view during the inspection, hold your diaphragm up to a light source.The diaphragm should be stretched at the area of the rim.This helps make sure there are no tears or holes in the device.You can check for tears or holes by pouring water inside the diaphragm.No leaks should be observed.If you see leaks, use another contraceptive method.
Step 3: Spericidal cream can be applied to the diaphragm.
The effectiveness of the diaphragm is reduced if spermicides are not used before it is inserted.Spericidal cream can be added to the dome of the diaphragm.You can spread the spermicide over the dome with your finger.The spermicidal package has instructions on how to use different products.
Step 4: To insert your diaphragm, find a comfortable position.
A diaphragm can be inserted by standing with one foot resting on a chair, lying down with knees bent and feet apart, or squatting down.Try different methods to find the best one.The opening that leads to your uterus should be located once you have found the comfortable position.The end of the vaginal canal is where you can feel your cervix.You need to insert the diaphragm here.
Step 5: Before intercourse, insert your diaphragm up to six hours.
The inside of the dome should be facing your vagina if you hold the diaphragm between your fingers and thumb.The vagina can be pushed all the way into the cervix if you separate the lips of your vulvar.The front rim should be tucked under the pubic bone.You might have the wrong fit if it feels loose.If you think you need a different size, talk to your doctor.
Step 6: After the diaphragm has been placed, wash your hands.
Before and after the removal of a diaphragm, washing your hands should be done.
Step 7: If needed, add more spermicide.
If intercourse should happen again within a few hours after the first act, additional spermicidal cream should be applied.If you insert your diaphragm hours before intercourse, you should add more spermicide.The spermicide products come in a tube.To get spermicidal cream into your vagina, simply squeeze the tube and insert the applicator as far as you can without being uncomfortable.
Step 8: You need to wash your hands.
Before and after the removal of a diaphragm, you should wash your hands.Proper hygiene can help prevent vaginal infections.
Step 9: Wait for at least 6 hours after intercourse.
The removal of the diaphragm can lead to unwanted pregnancies.You shouldn't leave the diaphragm for more than 24 hours.This can lead to serious problems, such as toxic shock syndrome.
Step 10: Remove the diaphragm.
Place your finger inside your vagina.Attach your finger to the upper rim.The diaphragm should be pulled out with your finger.Don't tear a hole in the diaphragm with your fingernails.
Step 11: Warm water and soap are needed to wash the diaphragm.
After removing bodily fluids and spermicide, you should always clean the diaphragm.The rubber may be weakened by perfumed soaps.Allow the diaphragm to dry after washing.If you use a towel to dry the diaphragm, it can lead to tears.If you want to dust it, remember to rinse the diaphragm before use.Don't use products such as baby powder, body powder or face powder.The rubber can be damaged by these.
Step 12: In a cool dry place, store your diaphragm.
The diaphragm can last up to two years with proper care.It needs to be stored in a container and avoided exposure to the hot or wet environment.Direct sunlight can heat the rubber and impair the integrity of the device.
Step 13: You can either replace the device after one to two years or after the advice of your healthcare provider.
If the diaphragm breaks before it's time to replace it, contact your healthcare provider and ask for a new device.Do not use it if you notice damage to your diaphragm.If you have doubts about the integrity of the device, it is better not to use it.
Step 14: The right diaphragm is what you should choose.
It's important to choose the right type of diaphragm.There are three different types of diaphragms.The most common type of diaphragm to insert is the arched spring one.The device has two points that form an arcs.The coil spring diaphragm has a soft rim but does not form an arcs when folded.Women with weak vagina muscles can take advantage of this.This type of diaphragm has an introducer tool.The flat spring is similar to the coil spring, but has a thinner and more delicate rim.The introducer tool can be used to insert this type of diaphragm.A flat spring is better for women with stronger vaginal muscles.Silicone diaphragms must be ordered from the manufacturer.Silicone can be used instead of latex if you are allergic to it.Seek medical assistance if you experience an allergic reaction.
Step 15: Pick the right fit.
Proper fitting of the diaphragm is important.Poorly fitted diaphragms can slip during intercourse and lead to pregnancies.If you don't have a dome, you can use fitting rings to find the right fit.They can be ordered from the manufacturer.You can also get fitted by your doctor.This is helpful if you are using a diaphragm for the first time.If you schedule an appointment with your doctor, the procedure takes around 10 minutes and you may experience some pain during the fitting.After the doctor knows the right measurement, she will teach you how to do it on your own.After weight loss, weight gain, childbirth, and/or miscarriage, you may need to change your diaphragm.
Step 16: When is it safe to use a diaphragm?
It is important that you inform your healthcare provider of any past health conditions that may affect your ability to use a diaphragm.Other alternatives are available if you aren't a good candidate for this type of contraception method.Discuss contraceptive methods with your doctor.
Step 17: The advantages and disadvantages of a diaphragm are known.
There are many methods to choose from when it comes to contraception.Knowing the pros and cons of using a diaphragm allows you to choose the best contraceptive method for you.The risks and side effects of contraceptives are not related to hormones.It is possible to insert diaphragm several hours before intercourse begins.You have control of your contraception.Some women are not comfortable touching themselves, so using diaphragms can become uncomfortable.Unwanted pregnancies may be a result of cases of diand removal during intercourse.Sexually transmitted diseases are not protected by diaphragms.The risk of urinary tract infections is higher for women who use diaphragms.It is noted that UTIs respond easily to medical treatments.Seek medical attention if you have a UTI.Urethritis and recurrent cystitis can be caused by upward pressure of the diaphragm rim against the urethra.If used wrong, diaphragms can increase the risk of toxic shock syndrome.Do not leave your diaphragm in for more than 8 hours after sexual intercourse and use proper hygiene to prevent toxic shock syndrome.